Between
1839 and 1844 the country areas of South Wales were witness
to something unique. At was a time when the poor of both town and country
felt under pressure from changes that were happening. They were experiencing
real hardship and felt that those
in power didn't care about their problems.

Around Rhayader the grievences led
to violent attacks on tollgates. The
attackers wore womens clothing and claimed the identity of "Rebecca
and her daughters" as they smashed down the gates and terrorised
the gatekeepers.